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ILLIT's New Sound: K-Pop's Shifting Tides?
29 Jan
Summary
- ILLIT's new song 'Not Cute Anymore' marks a distinct sonic shift.
- The song may be a subtle response to K-pop's typical innocent group framing.
- This release occurs amidst ongoing legal disputes involving Hybe and NewJeans.
ILLIT has unveiled a new sonic direction with their recent single, "Not Cute Anymore." This track offers a refreshing departure from typical K-pop girl group aesthetics, embracing a light and rocksteady sound. The song's release, in early 2026, is seen by some critics as a potential commentary on how female acts are often portrayed within the industry.
The timing of this evolution is especially scrutinized due to ongoing legal challenges between Hybe, ILLIT's parent label, and the group NewJeans. ILLIT, having debuted shortly after NewJeans under the same conglomerate, faced early comparisons. Their adoption of a new sound now is viewed by some as a pointed move within this complex corporate dynamic.
Despite external controversies, ILLIT has consistently demonstrated their unique appeal, building on the success of previous tracks like "Magnetic." Their latest offering reinforces their standing as a distinct and promising act within the K-pop scene, prompting hope for their continued artistic growth unhindered by industry disputes.
